Norton Junction to Stoke Bruerne

Grand Union Canal Cruising Itinerary:  This picturesque canal journey takes you through charming Northamptonshire countryside, passing through historic villages, scenic locks, and the impressive Blisworth Tunnel.

Day 1: Norton Junction (Guest Boarding)  4:00 PM: Guests board at Norton Junction moorings.

Spend the evening relaxing or taking a short towpath walk to admire the peaceful junction where the Grand Union meets the Leicester Line.

Interesting Fact: Norton Junction was once a key hub for transporting goods during the heyday of canal trade.

Day 2: Norton Junction to Bugbrooke Moorings – Distance: 7 miles | Cruising Time: 4-6 hours | Locks: 7

Cruise through the Buckby Lock Flight (Locks 7 to 12) with scenic views of rolling countryside.

Pass the charming village of Weedon Bec, known for its historic military depot built during the Napoleonic Wars.  Moor at Bugbrooke, a delightful village with the popular canal-side pub.

Day 3: Bugbrooke to Blisworth Tunnel Moorings – Distance: ~6 miles | Cruising Time: 4-6 hours | Locks: 0

Cruise through peaceful countryside and under charming stone bridges.  Pass the village of Gayton, near the junction for the Northampton Arm of the canal.  Moor near the entrance to Blisworth Tunnel, one of the longest navigable tunnels in the UK at 3,076 yards.

Interesting Fact: Blisworth Tunnel was completed in 1805 after several attempts and remains a marvel of canal engineering.

Day 4: Blisworth Tunnel to Stoke Bruerne – Distance: ~3 miles | Cruising Time: 2-4 hours | Locks: 7 | Tunnel: Blisworth (3,076 yards)

Early Morning Departure: Navigate through the Blisworth Tunnel, a long and atmospheric journey with natural springs creating misty patches inside. Descend through the Stoke Bruerne Lock Flight (Locks 14 to 20). Moor at Stoke Bruerne, one of the most picturesque and historic canal villages in England.

Guests can explore:

Canal Museum: Learn about the history of Britain’s waterways. Stoke Bruerne Village: Quaint cottages, pubs, and scenic towpath walks.

Day 5: Guest Departure – Enjoy a full breakfast onboard – 10:00 AM: Guests disembark at Stoke Bruerne moorings.

Points of Interest Along the Route:

Weedon Bec: Historic village with Napoleonic-era military depot.

Blisworth Tunnel: One of the longest canal tunnels in the UK.

Stoke Bruerne: A quintessential canal village and hub for waterway enthusiasts.

Enjoy a serene and historic journey filled with countryside beauty, charming villages, and canal heritage.